Bigger is Not Always Better

If you are looking for a reading magnifier that will help magnify a full page of a book or a magazine, the idea of a full page magnifier is very appealing. A page magnifier is one of many vision aids for macular degeneration that can assist with reading.

Lighting and magnification are the two most important low vision aids in helping one see words clearly. Most people prefer to have a large area of print magnified rather than just a few words or just part of a sentence. So, ideally, a full page magnifier is the best for reading. And it may be depending on how much magnification a person needs.

Reading Magnifiers

But here is a good time to share another magnification principle - bigger is not always better. Let me explain.

A bigger magnifier, like a full page magnifier is a weaker magnifier.

Meaning you won’t find one that offers a 5x magnifying power.

Most page magnifiers usually offer 2x magnification - meaning it will make the print appear two times its original size. And, if the magnifier also provides good lighting, the need for higher magnification may not be necessary.

Small Hand Held Magnifier

Smaller magnifiers, such as a hand held magnifying glass, offer more powerful magnifiers.

So if one needs more than 2x magnification, then a smaller magnifier will help.

Smaller hand held magnifiers with more power, such as a 5x magnifier, may help by making the words appear clearer and crisper, but the trade-off is that less print is visible.

It can also be very tedious to hold a magnifier for any length of time for more than just spot reading.

So, depending on what your low vision specialist recommends, always try to use the weakest magnifier that allows you to read without eye strain. Always have a good light source. Good lighting can make it possible to use a weaker magnifier.

Here are some of your options in searching for a reading magnifier:

Full Page Magnifier - select one that also offers good lighting and that is adjustable.

Electronic Book Readers - such as a Kindle or Nook that provides several options for font magnification and contrast enhancement

3. Low Vision CCTV - this is a desktop magnifier that can offer magnification levels up to 65x projected onto a large LCD screen.

How does one know which one of these options are the best? Ideally, it is best to get a recommendation from a low vision specialist or go to a low vision store where the products can be tried before making a purchase. The other option is to purchase a reading magnifier from a company that offers a good return policy.

Don’t give up on reading - there are many vision aids that can help. You may have to try a couple of different options to find the best solution for you.

For more information on Reading and Macular Degeneration click here:
Reading and Macular Degeneration

Thanks so much for subscribing to Macular Degeneration News.

Leslie Degner, RN, BSN

Better Health for Better Vision

www.WebRN-MacularDegeneration.com

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